Determine Your “Course” of Action

If eligible, you may have a traffic ticket dismissed by completing a court-approved Defensive Driving class.

This means:

• The ticket fine will be waived.
• No points will be assigned to your driving record.

You must notify the court of your enrollment decision. Depending on the court, notification may be entered on the citation or via a separate application. There is no guarantee the court will honor your request. The presiding judge will weigh the nature of the violation and past driving record when determining your eligibility.

NOTE: This option is not available to commercial drivers.

Complete a TN Driving Safety Course

The Defensive Driving program must be approved by the state. Choose between a traditional classroom program or an online course.

Depending on county, classes run from four to eight hours.

Submit Requirements to the Court

Some programs may directly submit your course completion certificate to the court. Others will require you to deliver it.

Don't delay if you're responsible. Your traffic ticket will not be dismissed until the court receives the completion certificate.

Keeping a copy for your records is strongly recommended.

Check Your Tennessee Driving Record

Check your driving record after completing the Defensive Driving class. Verify the ticket was dismissed. Contact the Department of Safety (DOS) if you recognize any errors.

Get an Auto Insurance Discount

Completing a Defensive Driving class may earn a rate discount. Check with your car insurance provider.